Question

Which one of Steno’s principles is responsible for corresponding layers found on opposite walls of the Grand Canyon?

Options:
Option 1: Principle of Original Horizontality
Option 2: Principle of Original Lateral Continuity
Option 3: Principle of Faunal Succession
Option 4: Principle of Superposition

Answer 1

The Principle of Original Lateral Continuity is responsible for corresponding layers found on opposite walls of the Grand Canyon, as it posits that layers of sedimentary rock were continuous and widespread before being disrupted by formations like canyons.

Step-by-step explanation:

The principle responsible for corresponding layers found on opposite walls of the Grand Canyon is the Principle of Original Lateral Continuity. This principle states that layers of sedimentary rock are continuous, extending in all directions until they thin out or are truncated by other structures. So, when we see matching layers on opposite sides of the Grand Canyon, we are seeing evidence that these layers were once part of a continuous deposit that extended across the entire region before the canyon formed.

Dating back to Nicolas Steno's work in the 17th century, his principles, including the Principles of Original Horizontality, Lateral Continuity, Faunal Succession, and Superposition, have been fundamental in the science of stratigraphy, helping geologists understand the relative ages and formation of rock layers.